Oscar Scherer Area Trails

Oscar Scherer Area Trails is a 4 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near Nokomis, Florida that offers the chance to see wildlife and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

DISTANCE

4.0 miles

ELEVATION GAIN

19 feet

ROUTE TYPE

Loop

dogs on leash

kid friendly

camping

hiking

paddle sports

trail running

walking

wildlife

Trails are well marked. The yellow trail has a lot of sand, after one (or a few) good rains, I would expect this to be pretty muddy -- plan accordingly. I'm curious as to what is the plan for the area surrounding Big Lake, over the past few months it's been cleared and the observation platform has had some improvements.

Little shade on the trail we walked on a hot day. We saw no wildlife. Better for biking. Never got to see the pond because it was too hot and boring walking through grassland. The park is lovely around the lake and where there are trees. A great place to bike or have a picnic.

Too far to walk without seeing anything but a few birds. Took the Yellow Trail (5 miles), which was sandy and sunny for the first 1.5 miles, then became harder pack with a canopy for shade. Plenty of deer and hog tracks, but nothing moving - it was 85+ degrees at 8:30 am.

Trail marked ok, only a little confusion around 5 and 5A loop. Plenty of options for multiple distances.

Did the longest trail (yellow i think?), not a ton to see but it was still fun and interesting. Also did a different trail that was closed halfway through, would've appreciated some kind of notice at the trail head.

This trail hooks up with many others in the park that take you by beautiful lakes, streams, and wildlife habitats. Hold your hand flat and make a gentle hissy sound and a scrub jay may land in your hand.